A radiology technician career is achievable for those age 55 and over.
The decision to enter or reenter the workforce after age 55 is a decision that takes some legwork and personal assessment to make. A career as a radiology technician is one achievable choice. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, radiology technicians in 2008 earned an average salary of $52,210.
Instructions
1. Talk to career counselors at local colleges or schools in your area and solicit their advice to determine if being a radiology technician is a career that interests you. Take a skill assessment test that analyzes your current skills and targeted career path; AARP offers one online called WorkSearch.
2. Apply for enrollment in a local college or online university that offers a program accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology. Contact a nearby school directly to apply for the program and follow the application process. Gather high school and college transcripts and other information on your past education and professional experience.
3. Meet with the enrollment and career counselors at the school once you are accepted. Design a plan for course work to fit your schedule. Talk with the school about receiving educational credits for life experiences and past work or educational history, if you have not received a college degree in the past. Develop a plan to complete all course work. To be a radiology technician, the minimum educational plan requires a two-year commitment.
4. Complete the accredited program and obtain your certificate or degree. Participate in all clinical training offered by the school. Keep a list of the places that utilize radiology technicians and start to create a resume that highlights your studies and training in radiology.
5. Take the exam offered by American Registry of Radiologic Technologists, or ARRT, and pass the exam. To find the closest testing center to where you live, ask your school's career counselor or search the ARRT website.
6. Apply for radiology technician positions. Talk to the company that hires you about continuing education opportunities and areas of specialization. Continue your career training and advancement by taking advanced classes and course work opportunities offered to you by your employer.
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